The Main Road Bridge Project is set to kick-off in January 2018. There will be a lot of information coming out over the next few weeks about construction schedules, detour routes, and how to navigate the Upper Canyon during the project. Keep checking this page for updates.

The project will widen the existing Main Road bridge which has been badly damaged over the years during various flood events. Ultimately, this will make it safer for all residents living in the Upper Canyon as the wider bridge will allow for more vehicles to move in and out of the area in the event of an emergency.

The current bridge is approximately one-and-a-half lanes, making it impossible for two cars to pass on the bridge. The new bridge will be three lanes wide, giving the Village of Ruidoso more capacity to move large equipment through the area when needed for projects or in the event of emergencies or evacuations.

TIME LINE

Bid for construction awarded – December 19, 2017

Construction begins – January 20, 2018

Estimated Duration of Project = 120 Days

The bridge will not be closed for 120 days - that is the estimated duration of the project from start to finish. The VOR will work closely with the contractor to get it open as quickly as possible.

PREPARATION

PUBLIC INPUT: After multiple meetings and using input received from Upper Canyon residents and business owners, the original timeline of September-December set by the VOR was moved to January-April to better accommodate the needs of the citizens.

DETOUR: A clearly marked detour will be available to all residents and businesses affected by the bridge closure. The VOR has been working diligently to improve the detour route by patching potholes, widening the road, grooming the corners, and adding lighting. See detour map and detour videos below.

SNOW/ICE REMOVAL: Since the construction will be taking place during the winter months, a dedicated sand spreader and salt truck will be staged on the detour route for the duration for the duration of the project.

PUBLIC SAFETY: The response times of the Ruidoso Fire Department and the Ruidoso Police Department will not be affected by the construction and the detour route.